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Bass clarinet obsession

Author: Bluesparkle
Date: 2009-08-29 12:42

Now that I have rented a mostly-functional bass clarinet, I have become obsessed with the thought that I should find my own instrument. Not only to save in rental costs, but to get a better quality piece. Too many hours online researching and shopping already, which has only served to provide me with so many choices that making a choice has become difficult.

I've done a search on here, and there are lots of opinions about instruments. I'm interested to take a poll regarding bass clarinets of choice. I am trying not to spend a lot, as this is a secondary hobby, but I will play the instrument occasionally in church. I have identified several brands which seem to fall within my budget.

Assuming I can find the instrument for $600 or less, assuming any of them are in playable but perhaps not perfect condition, and assuming I'll have to select my own mouthpiece, what is your bass clarinet of choice? If you can't pick just one, then feel free to rank them in the order of your preference:

Bundy
Selmer USA
Vito
Jupiter
Other (please name)

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Re: Bass clarinet obsession

Author: tictactux ★2017
Date: 2009-08-29 12:57

My "budget choice" would be a Bundy with Brad Behn's Ouverture Bass mouthpiece.

The Selmer USA (1430P) is the successor of the Bundy and is roughly the same as the Jupiter 673* (re-angled neck), while the Vito 7166 and the Yamaha 220 are identical as well. Another twin set appear to be the Vito 7168 and the Jupiter 675 (Eb on body instead of on bell). The Yamaha 221 is a completely different design.

Now, if I could choose among these models (without being restricted by my financial advisor), I'd choose the Yamaha 221(II), then the 1430P or the 673, followed by whatever's around. I'd prefer silver-plated keywork but that doesn't appear to be available in that price range.

* edit: Interestingly, there appear to be two 673 models, one looks like a Vito, the other like a Bundy.

--
Ben

Post Edited (2009-08-29 13:32)

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Re: Bass clarinet obsession

Author: Hank Lehrer
Date: 2009-08-29 16:58

Hi,

My current BC is a Reynolds Emperor (aka Vito by Leblanc I believe) that I got very cheap. A good re pad and then some tweaking by my tech and the instrument is playing well.

I did change the body peg to a bell mount and added a Protec case which is really good. I have a Portnoy as well as a couple of other assorted BC MPs as well. My total investment is about $600 to 700.

I played a Yamaha 221II this past spring and although it is a really nice instrument, not that much better than what I have right now. One day, when my ship comes in, I'll get a pro-model but I am not rushing into it.

These Bundy and Vito BCs can take a real beating and keep on bleating.

HRL

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